A potassium-deficient diet can lead to a condition called hypokalemia -- a metabolic disorder within the body. Potassium plays a key role in the proper functioning of numerous cells, especially muscle and nerve cells, reports Drugs.com. A healthy individual derives potassium from meals and any excess potassium is secreted through the kidneys. Low potassium levels can lead to a condition called hypokalemia. The causes for low potassium levels include certain medications, excessive sweating or vomiting and disease.
Diet Lacking in Potassium
In rare cases, patients can develop hypokalemia due to insufficient consumption of foods that contain potassium, states MayoClinic.com. In such cases, the body is usually able to maintain potassium levels by decreasing potassium excretion in the urine. However, this compensation can only go on for a limited time. Symptoms include erratic heartbeat, muscle deterioration, weakness and paralysis.
Antibiotics
Certain antibiotics, such as carbencillin and gentamicin, may cause hypokalemia, according to MedlinePlus, a service of the National Institutes of Health. These antibiotics are used to fight off bacterial infections, but can cause side effects such as low potassium levels. Patients on these antibiotics should be wary of hypokalemia, and, if they develop this side effect, should consult their doctor.
Diuretics
Diuretics, or water pills, increase a patient's urinary frequency. They prevent the kidneys from reabsorbing water, which increases urine volume and urinary frequency. Increased urine excretion typically helps lower blood pressure. However, some diuretics have been linked to hypokalemia, reports Drugs.com. These diuretics cause an increased excretion of potassium in the urine. Examples of diuretics that can cause low levels of potassium include hydrochlorothiazide and acetazolamide. Once this side effect develops, the diuretic should be changed to another medication that does not cause hypokalemia.
Excessive Sweating or Vomiting
Excessive sweating and frequent episodes of vomiting can lead to hypokalemia, notes MedlinePlus. Patients with these conditions frequently excrete large amounts of potassium in their sweat or vomitus. Removing the condition causing the sweating or vomiting usually relieves the low potassium levels, but some patients may require potassium supplements to restore potassium levels within their bodies.
Hyperaldosteronism
Aldosterone is a hormone secreted by the adrenal gland that causes the body to reabsorb sodium in the kidney while increasing the secretion of potassium. This directly leads to high levels of sodium and low levels of potassium within the body. Aldosterone helps maintain electrolyte balance and moderate blood pressure. However, increased secretion of the hormone, a condition referred to as hyperaldosteronism, can lead to a drastic decrease in potassium levels, according to Drugs.com. Patients with hyperaldosteronism are almost always also suffering from some form of hypokalemia.
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